Although in its infancy, the metaverse has quickly gained traction as one of the biggest trends predicted to alter the global workforce permanently.Â
Even now, the coworking industry is being impacted by the emergence of the metaverse. Operators have started strategizing how to support a hybrid workplace that relies on technologies, like virtual and augmented reality.Â
However, in order for coworking spaces to fully optimize the possibilities of the metaverse and the virtual economy as a whole, there are five key tools and amenities that are needed to make this possible.Â
Although there are online platforms like Fortnite and Sandbox that emulate metaverse-like qualities, the use of AR and VR headsets will be critical to creating a truly immersive coworking experience. Â
While these new technologies are still fairly expensive, there are slightly more affordable ones on the market that coworking operators can incorporate into their space to stand out from the competition.  Â
Going beyond headsets, coworking spaces can invest into haptic gloves and suits that help make the VR experience nearly lifelike. Again, these technologies are quite expensive and uncomfortable, but the future will likely see them become more accessible, affordable, and mobile. Â
Wristband AR Sensors can be an alternative to full haptic suits. Using the wristband, VR and AR technology can read which fingers the user is moving, allowing their avatar in the metaverse to mirror their movements.Â
Even more advanced are brain-to-computer (BCI) and brain-to-machine interfaces (BMI) which use electrodes on a person’s head to scan brainwaves and produce commands that a computer can understand.Â
Computing power will also be required to help operate such technologies. For example, VR headsets need computers with high-end monitors that support good quality streaming and ensure that the VR experience has no lag. Â
Lastly, none of this can be accomplished without reliable WiFi, which is already the backbone of any optimal workplace. While high-speed internet is certainly a necessity now, it will be even more so as technologies in coworking spaces become increasingly advanced and require more bandwidth to operate.Â
